Partner Scarf Dance

In pairs, each holding a scarf, students learn a simple four-figure folk dance inspired by traditional handkerchief dances and perform it in two circles. Students practice rhythm, coordination with a partner and traditional dance.

How to play

1. Form two circles, inner and outer, with partners facing each other, each student holding a scarf in the right hand (2 min).
2. Figure 1: eight steps toward the center waving the scarf overhead and eight steps back (3 min).
3. Figure 2: partners hook right elbows and turn for eight steps, then switch to left elbows for eight more (3 min).
4. Figure 3: bow with the scarf, clap hands with your partner and take one side step to get a new partner (3 min).
5. Link the three figures and add the fourth: a solo turn with the scarf above your head (3 min).
6. Dance the whole routine to music three times in a row, switching partners every time through (4 min).

Rules

• Wave the scarf above your head, never toward a partner's face.
• Walk the turns and never yank your partner's arm.
• Dance with whoever you end up with when partners change; no choosing.

Variations

Adaptations

• Limited mobility: during turns the partner circles the wheelchair while the student waves the scarf to the beat.
• Hearing impairment: the teacher shows a numbered sign for each figure.
• Shyness: keep the same partner for the first rounds before adding partner changes.

Learning goals

• Follow a simple dance by matching steps to the music.
• Coordinate movements with a partner.
• Appreciate folk dances as part of culture.

Equipment for a class of 25

• scarves: 25
• music
• speakers: 1

Teacher tip

A simple polka or a Virginia reel tune works well because of its clear beat. Count the eight steps aloud the first few times and stop counting once they have it.

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